NAFDMA’S Advanced Learning Retreat Dates Announced

North American Farmers’ Direct Marketing Association (NAFDMA) announced their tenth annual Advanced Learning Retreat (ALR). The event will take place at Alstede Farms in Chester, New Jersey on August 8 to 11 and will feature an in-depth look at a thriving year-round farming operation.

Alstede Farms is a first generation farm that has become extraordinarily successful growing and selling produce. The farm was founded in 1982 and now produces over 200 different home grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers. They direct market their products through their CSA, PYO, local farmers markets and in their on-farm store. They are also an agritourism destination featuring weddings, events and festivals throughout the year.

The first full day of the event lets attendees visit the farm while it is in full operation. Special access gives them a chance to see parts of the operation not open to the public, such as the CSA staging area, full kitchen, or admissions process. Family members and key employees will present over 20 different education sessions in a class room setting on the second day. Educational session topics include Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations, Farm Retail, Agritourism, CSA, PYO and Farmers Markets, Food and Farm Business Management.